Province highlights Budget 2023 investments in reconciliation and safety

The government says the economic stream of the Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative will provide capacity and opportunity development funding for community-owned projects or businesses. Funding is said to be available for a range of business activities, including business plan development, environmental impact assessments, marketing plans and similar strategic initiatives necessary for long-term success.

Funding through the cultural stream is expected to support traditional arts programs, language initiatives, research on oral histories and protocol items, and a range of projects that help revitalize language, culture and traditions.

According to the government, a total of $3 million in grants will be available each year for three years through the Indigenous Reconciliation Initiative’s two funding streams.

“As an Indigenous Elder, I am heartened to see the steps being taken by the Government of Alberta towards reconciliation. It is through acknowledging and addressing the injustices of the past that we can move towards a more just and equitable future for all,” notes Elder Charles Fox, Kainai Blood Tribe.

To address the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people, government officials say Budget 2023 invests $15 million over three years.

Of this, $3.5 million annually in grants is expected to be available through the Community Support Fund. Officials say this grant initiative will support community projects that address violence and increase safety and economic security for Indigenous women, girls and two-spirit people.

The government says an additional $1.5 million each year will support the implementation of the Government of Alberta Roadmap on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, including the Premier’s Council on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, as well as the First Nations and Métis Women’s Councils on Economic Security.

“As a family member and part of the Premier’s Council, I am very hopeful that these funds will lead to implementation of the 113 calls to action. I truly appreciate the province of Alberta for recognizing the need to build safer and stronger Indigenous communities,” adds Josie Nepinak, executive director, Awo Taan Healing Lodge Society.

Provincial officials say reconciliation is a priority for Alberta’s government. As partners in reconciliation, the government says they are listening to and working with Indigenous Peoples in Alberta to determine the best ways forward to a better future.

by rdnewsNOW staff

Province highlights Budget 2023 investments in reconciliation and safety

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